Log in to an encrypted account without VoiceOver

If you turn on FileVault, you must log in to your account whenever your Mac is restarted or wakes from sleep. VoiceOver isn’t available in the FileVault login window. Depending on your computer, a series of beeps or macOS speech services indicate where the cursor is positioned in the login window.

After your Mac awakes or starts, determine if the FileVault login window is displayed by pressing Command-F5.

If you hear a single beep, the cursor is positioned in the Name field and you can begin logging in. Continue to step 2.

If you don’t hear a single beep, the FileVault login window might not be displayed yet. Wait a minute, then press Command-F5 again. If you still don’t hear a beep, there may be a problem with encryption. Turn off your Mac, then turn it on again. An unencrypted login process will begin during which VoiceOver is available.

Type your account name, then press Return.

If you hear a double beep, you entered a valid account name. Continue to step 3.

If you hear a single beep, you entered an invalid account name and the cursor remains in the Name field. Keep entering your account name until you hear a double beep.

Type your account password, then press Return.

If you hear three beeps, you entered a valid password and login proceeds.

If you hear a double beep, you entered an invalid password and the cursor remains in the Password field. Keep entering your password until you hear three beeps.